Though carbon plates have been around the running shoe world for more than 25 years (actually recalling one from at least 30 years ago), Nike got the drop (shoe pun intended) on the racing world by succeeding in pairing great foam, angles, and tall stack geometry onto the feet of the Marathon World Record holder. The Monza, Italy racetrack nearly became the site of the first sub 2 hour marathon in a first attempt to specifically target the 2 hour barrier. While the venue and the hype came up just short, Eliud Kipchoge later succeeded in becoming the first marathoner to complete the 26 mile 385 yard distance in under 2 hours. The Alphafly 3 is the latest iteration of the Marathon Supershoe which dominates the biggest and fastest marathons in the world. The upper is a nearly see-through mesh, adequately supportive, but as light as possible, its monosock construction and flat laces conforming well to the foot while offering enough support for the distance. The midsole, as with the earlier versions of the super shoes, is PEBA foam: light, protective, and in concert with its Carbon plate, effectively responsive for the distance. Version 3 more effectively encapsulated the Zoom units, with the visible Zoom Air featuring prominently. The outersole is a thin, durable, carbon rubber designed for durability and traction. The result is a recognized performance enhancer, continuing to reflect the science behind marathon footwear.
Testers: “First thing that I think about, when I think about the Marathon.”
Updates the Alphafly 2 • Price: $285• Sizes: Men 7-13, 14, 15 ; Women – 5.5-12 • Weight: 8.5 oz. (men’s 12); 7 oz. (women’s 7) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board • Drop: 6mm • Recommended for: low- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics